He knew he had never painted a better.
"And may I carry it away with me ?" asked Mr.Oxford.
"I expect so," said Priam.
"I wonder if I might venture to ask you to come back to town with me ?" Mr.Oxford went on, in gentle deference.

"I have one or two pictures I should very much like you to see, and I fancy they might give you pleasure.

And we could talk over future business.

If possibly you could spare an hour or so.

If I might request----" A desire rose in Priam's breast and fought against his timidity.